Seven Principles of Government and the Bill of Rights

Vocabulary flashcards covering the Seven Principles of the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights (Amendments 1-10).

Popular Sovereignty

The constitutional principle that the people have the power.

Republicanism

The principle of government where people elect their representatives to run the government.

Federalism

A system where both the State and Federal government have the power to make laws, such as imposing taxes on citizens.

Separation of Powers

The division of United States government power among three different branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

Checks and Balances

The separation of power to avoid one entity or body wielding too much power, such as the President having the power to veto legislation passed by Congress.

Limited Government

A government that is legally restricted in its use of power, where elected officials and government personnel must follow the same rule of law as other citizens.

Individual Rights

Personal freedoms and liberties protected by the Constitution, including freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of peaceful assembly.

Bill of Rights

The first ten Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

1st Amendment

Protects freedom of religion, speech, press, petition, and assembly (RAPPS).

2nd Amendment

Protects the right to keep and bear arms.

3rd Amendment

States that citizens cannot be required to quarter soldiers in time of peace.

4th Amendment

Protects citizens against unreasonable searches or seizures.

5th Amendment

Guarantees the right to due process, protects against double jeopardy, and ensures citizens cannot be forced to testify against themselves ("Plead the 5th").

Double Jeopardy

A 5th Amendment protection ensuring that once a person has been found innocent of a crime in a court of law, they may not be tried for that exact crime again.

6th Amendment

Guarantees the right to a speedy and public trial.

7th Amendment

Guarantees the right to a trial by jury.

8th Amendment

Prohibits cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail.

9th Amendment

Reserves rights and powers to the people.

10th Amendment

Reserves powers to the states.